FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you psychologists?

No, we are not psychologists. We are Registered Professional Counsellors with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association or Registered Counselling Therapists with the Nova Scotia College of Counselling Therapists. We meet rigorous educational and competency requirements, regularly take part in continuing education and professional development, have ongoing supervision, carry professional liability insurance, and have passed rigorous testing to meet our profession’s requirements for licensure.

Are your services covered by MSI or health insurance?

Counselling is not covered by the provincial health insurance (MSI).
Some third-party health insurance companies do not cover services provided by Registered Professional Counsellors as this time. However, counselling has been covered on a case-by-case basis and more insurance companies are approving claims submitted for services provided by Counsellors. Please check with your health plan provider for more information. Registered Professional Counsellors have been covered under the same category as clinical counsellors, mental health therapists, or psychotherapists (not psychologists).

If you are referred to us through your employer or EAP provider, services provided by Registered Professional Counsellors are likely covered through this service.

Will you give me a diagnosis?

No. As Registered Professional Counsellors and Registered Counselling Therapists we are not permitted to provide a diagnosis in accordance with provincial law. Doctors (including psychiatrists) and psychologists are the only professionals who can make an official diagnosis in Nova Scotia. Counsellors have working knowledge of mental health disorders and diagnoses to help their clients overcome their personal challenges; our main focus is on relieving symptoms and distress. If you need a diagnosis your counsellor would be happy to refer you to a psychologist. Psychiatrists require a referral from a doctor.

What is the difference between a Counsellor, Psychologist, or Psychiatrist?

Counsellors work with clients to help them overcome personal struggles through counselling and coaching. Counsellors are trained in mental health counselling approaches, crisis intervention, and various other areas. Counsellors have a wide variety of training in mental health, including but not limited to: diploma in clinical counselling, degrees in psychology or mental health, graduate degrees psychology, counselling, or mental health, or advanced (post-graduate) training in mental health.

A Psychologist is a therapist with at least a master’s degree in counselling or clinical psychology, and focus on psychopathology, therapy, and assessment. In general, a Psychologist will offer a wider range of therapies for psychological disorders, and are able to conduct psychological assessments to provide a diagnosis. Psychologists in Nova Scotia are regulated by the Nova Scotia Board of Examiners in Psychology (NSBEP) and provide psychological services. Only members of the NSBEP can provide psychological services.

A Psychiatrist is a medical doctor with a specialization in mental health. Psychiatrists are able to provide therapy for a wide range of disorders, give a diagnosis, prescribe medication, and conduct psychiatric assessments. Psychiatrists are the only mental health practitioner who can have someone admitted to a hospital. Psychiatrists in Nova Scotia are regulated by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia (CPSNS) and provide psychiatric care. Only psychiatrists who are members of CPSNS can provide psychiatric care in Nova Scotia.